Curb, paving stone or kerbstone charging device for charging an energy storage device of an electrically powered vehicle

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a curbstone, paving stone or kerbstone charging device for charging an energy storage device of an electrically powered vehicle, comprising a curbstone, paving stone or kerbstone unit in which an inner receiving space is formed, which is bounded by walls, wherein an opening is formed in one of the walls, a charging socket, a pivoting part to which the charging socket is attached, and which has a cover element by means of which the opening in the wall can be closed, wherein the pivoting part is connected to one of the walls via a pivot joint, so that by moving the pivoting part from the position of the cover element closing the opening the charging socket can be extended out of the receiving space.

[0002] Such curb, paving stone, or kerbstone charging devices are charging stations integrated into the curb, paving stone, or kerbstone, or curb, paving stones, or kerbstones in which at least one charging socket is integrated and connected to a central charging station. An electrical connection can be established via the charging sockets to charge an electrically powered vehicle or its battery. This applies particularly to purely electric vehicles, but also to hybrid vehicles. Rechargeable vehicles can be passenger cars, trucks, motorcycles, or electric bicycles.

[0003] Due to the new legislation, the increasing interest of the population in climate protection, and the improved economic viability of electrified vehicles, it is expected that the proportion of electric vehicles will increase dramatically, especially in inner-city areas. Therefore, the available charging infrastructure must be expanded significantly, meaning that some existing parking spaces or sidewalks must be equipped with appropriate charging facilities to ensure individual mobility in the future.

[0004] Known concepts for this include using streetlights, installing additional charging stations, or installing wallboxes on building walls. All of these concepts require additional space and cause pedestrians to be disturbed by the charging cables.

[0005] For this reason, charging systems have become known in which the charging devices, or at least the charging sockets, are integrated into the paving stones forming the curb, kerb, or sidewalk. In this context, it should be noted that, for the purposes of the invention, a paving stone, curb, or kerb does not necessarily have to contain a stone element. This means that the paving stones, curbs, or kerbstones can also be composed of various materials, such as plastics, in particular fiber-reinforced plastics, or plastics containing metal, concrete, or stone. Furthermore, different parts made of different materials can be combined to form the paving stone, curb, or kerbstone unit.

[0006] Integrating the charging socket or the entire charging unit into the curb has the advantage that no charging stations obstruct the sidewalks and thus disrupt the visual appearance. It also prevents charging cables from protruding across the sidewalk and creating tripping hazards for pedestrians. Instead, no additional space is required; existing infrastructure is simply utilized. Furthermore, damage to the charging infrastructure from vehicle accidents can be prevented.

[0007] Several variants of a curb loading device are known from WO 2021 156 621 A1.

[0008] The charging ports should be easily accessible for initiating the charging process and also easy to install. Additionally, damage to the charging ports must be avoided.

[0009] FR 2 713 307 A1 discloses a container that is embedded in the ground and whose surface can serve as a walkway or driveway. This container has a hinged lid which, when folded down, forms the walking surface and, when opened, reveals a charging socket on its underside. When closed, this socket is located in a receiving chamber within the container. The lid is connected to a fixed part of the container's top surface via a pivot joint, allowing it to be opened manually, hydraulically, or pneumatically.

[0010] A similar box is also known from GB 1 402 267 B, in which the part swung out from the interior is held in its position by a switch after manual opening.

[0011] From EP 3 360 211 B1, a curbside charging device with a pivoting cover is known, which, when open, provides access to the integrated charging socket. The opening movement is assisted by a spring element.

[0012] From WO 2023 179896 A1 a curbside charging device is known in which a pivoting part having the charging socket is moved electrically between the opening position and the closed position.

[0013] However, with known designs, it is not possible to prevent unauthorized use when used as part of a charging infrastructure in public spaces. Furthermore, these containers are not user-friendly, as the user always comes into contact with dirt and grime present on the surfaces when opening them. The containers are also not protected against the ingress of water or contaminants, so malfunction and blockage of the mechanism are to be expected after a short period of use. There is also a risk of fingers or other limbs being trapped, or damage from vandalism, with known designs.

[0014] The challenge, therefore, is to provide a curb, paving stone, or kerbstone charging device for charging the energy storage system of an electric vehicle. This device must significantly simplify operation and reliably prevent injuries from entrapment, operator contamination, and vandalism. Furthermore, a high level of reliability must be ensured, including preventing the ingress of dirt and water in both the open and closed positions, as well as in all intermediate positions.

[0015] This problem is solved by a curbstone, paving stone or kerbstone charging device for charging an energy storage device of an electrically powered vehicle with the features of main claim 1.

[0016] A curbstone, paving stone, or kerbstone charging device according to the invention for charging an energy storage device of an electrically powered vehicle comprises a curbstone, paving stone, or kerbstone unit with a surface that, when installed, forms a walking or driving surface. This unit has an internal receiving space bounded by walls, which may be formed from several assembled components and substantially enclose the receiving space. "Substantially" in this context means that openings may be formed in the walls, which are closed by other components or cover parts or serve as drainage. An opening is formed in one of the walls, which typically faces upwards and forms the walking or driving surface, but is accessible at least when the unit is installed.Furthermore, the curb, paving stone, or kerbstone charging device features a charging socket into which a plug for charging the vehicle can be inserted. The charging socket is attached to a swiveling element, which has a cover that closes the opening in the wall when the swiveling element is retracted. The swiveling element is connected to the wall containing the opening via a pivot joint. By pivoting the swiveling element around the axis of rotation of the pivot joint from the position where the cover element closes the opening, the charging socket can be extended from the receiving area and becomes accessible to the user. To perform the pivoting action, an electrically controlled actuator is located in the receiving area, allowing the swiveling element with the charging socket to rotate.The electrical actuation of the swiveling part, and thus the swiveling of the charging socket, enables external control, which initiates the process. This can be done, for example, by identifying a user via a card or their mobile phone. The electric actuator drives at least one friction wheel, which acts on the swiveling part to rotate it. Accordingly, the swiveling part with the charging socket is rotated around its pivot point by the drive and the resulting rotation of the friction wheel.

[0017] Accordingly, it is no longer necessary to manually extend the charging socket, reliably preventing hand contamination or finger entrapment. This enables one-handed operation with a high level of system convenience. It also prevents incorrect operation and unauthorized use, thereby reducing malfunctions. The purely force-fit or friction-fit connection between the friction wheel and the swivel element makes the swivel less susceptible to vandalism during opening and closing, as the friction wheel can slip, preventing breakage of mechanical components or the introduction of energy into the electrical components, which could damage them. Furthermore, the actuator can be easily sealed, and the system is very accessible for maintenance.Wear and tear is minimal, and the parts are easy and inexpensive to manufacture and assemble.

[0018] Preferably, the electrically controlled actuator comprises an electric motor with a gearbox. This electrical actuation is particularly simple and robust in design. It requires fewer components compared to hydraulic or pneumatic systems, thus significantly reducing the space requirement. Furthermore, unlike hydraulic systems, it eliminates the need for oil changes during maintenance. Higher efficiency is also achieved. Compared to pneumatic systems, it does not require an air supply.

[0019] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the kerbstone, paving stone, or edging unit comprises a base body in which the inner receiving chamber is formed, and a protective cover as a wall that essentially closes off the receiving chamber towards a surface serving as a pedestrian or vehicular path, and in which the opening is formed. The base body can be made of stone, a plastic such as fiber-reinforced plastic, concrete, or various steel components or reinforcements. The protective cover, which can be detachably attached to the base body, geodetically closes off the receiving chamber in the base body when installed, thus forming a pedestrian or vehicular path. It can be made of steel and exhibits high strength. Such a kerbstone, paving stone, or edging unit is simple in construction and remains easily accessible for maintenance or repairs.

[0020] Preferably, the actuator's gearbox is a planetary gearbox. This allows for a high gear ratio. Furthermore, this gearbox is space-saving and very robust against damage. It achieves high torque transmission in a very small installation space.

[0021] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the actuator is connected to a second gearbox via a flexible coupling, on whose output shaft the friction wheel is at least rotationally fixed. The flexible coupling compensates for slight misalignments between the two gearboxes or their output shafts. This reduces undesirable internal forces in the gearboxes and thus significantly extends their service life.

[0022] Preferably, the second gearbox is a bevel gear gearbox, which makes it particularly easy to create the 90° deflection between the output shaft of the actuator and the output shaft of the second gearbox on which the friction wheel is mounted. Bevel gear gearboxes are very compact and exhibit only low noise emissions.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the friction wheel and actuator are rotatable about a suspension axis of rotation which runs parallel to the output shaft on which the friction wheel is mounted. Accordingly, the actuator and friction wheel can be rotated about the suspension axis of rotation to generate a contact force of the friction wheel against the pivoting element. The joint rotation of the actuator and the friction wheel prevents any misalignment between these parts.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the pivot joint is designed as a hinge whose axis of rotation is located outside the circumference of the cover element and which is connected to the cover element. This results in an eccentric bearing outside the cover element, so that the cover element is completely rotated from one side during the pivoting process towards the protective cover or the wall to which the hinge is attached at its other end. This eccentricity also allows the charging socket to be raised significantly higher above the walking or driving surface, thus facilitating user access.

[0025] In a further embodiment, the pivoting element has a wall surface with a circular arc cross-section, the distance of which to the pivot joint is constant. This distance is selected such that, during the opening and closing process, the circular arc wall surface moves opposite an edge located away from the pivot joint and defining the opening in the wall. This circular arc wall surface of the pivoting element largely prevents the ingress of water or dirt not only in the open and closed positions, but also during the entire movement of the pivoting element, as there is only a very small gap between the defining edge and the pivoting element, allowing for minimal friction. This extends the functionality of the loading device.It also prevents limbs and larger objects such as branches from getting caught.

[0026] In a further embodiment, the friction wheel is loaded against the arcuate cross-section of the pivoting part's wall surface. This arcuate wall surface thus serves as the bearing surface for the friction wheel, to which the frictional connection for opening and closing is established. In this way, the actuator and the friction wheel can essentially remain in their position and roll on the wall surface, which is thereby pivoted around the pivot joint and thus carries the rest of the pivoting part along with it.

[0027] To provide the necessary preload for the frictional connection, the friction wheel is biased against its arcuate wall surface by a spring. Generating this preload with the spring is simple and can be adjusted by selecting the appropriate spring strength.

[0028] The spring is preferably arranged between the actuator's pivot axis and the friction wheel. Its first end rests against a fixed contact surface attached to the curbstone, paving stone, or kerbstone assembly, while its second end rests against a support for the actuator. The spring force is absorbed by the fixed contact surface and transmitted to the rotatable support of the actuator. The assembly for applying this contact force is therefore easy to manufacture, and the spring is easy to install.

[0029] In a further embodiment, the mounting surface is formed on a suspension component attached to the protective cover. This component has two bearing plates, which support the pivot axis of the suspension on both sides. This double-sided support prevents lateral forces. Because the actuator and friction wheel are attached to the protective cover, they are automatically removed when the cover is lifted, for example, for maintenance purposes. This significantly simplifies the installation and removal of the actuator and friction wheel.

[0030] Preferably, two friction wheels are arranged on the output shaft, which are forcefully loaded against the arcuate wall surface of the pivoting part. Two springs are arranged between the actuator's pivot axis and the friction wheel, each bearing at its first end against a contact surface fixed to the curb, paving stone, or kerbstone assembly. The friction wheels and springs are arranged symmetrically to a central axis of the actuator. The two friction wheels allow the force to be applied over a larger area of ​​the arcuate wall surface. Tilting due to uneven loading is prevented by the springs and friction wheels being arranged symmetrically to the drive shaft of the second gearbox. Instead, a symmetrical force transmission is ensured.By using the friction wheels arranged in the outer area of ​​the arc-shaped wall surface, the charging socket can be arranged on a flat plane in the middle area of ​​this wall surface, and yet a positive engagement of the friction wheels can be ensured over the entire arc.

[0031] Accordingly, the charging socket is attached to a socket receiving element of the pivoting part, which is arranged in a recess of the arcuate wall surface. This recess is formed in the first section of the arcuate wall surface, which is located closest to the cover element, with the socket receiving element extending perpendicular to the cover element of the pivoting part. Thus, when the support part rotates, the charging socket pivots vertically upwards and is easily accessible. Furthermore, the socket receiving element can be designed as a flat plate to which the charging socket can be easily attached via a flange connection.

[0032] Furthermore, it is advantageous if a locking actuator is arranged on the pivoting part, via which a locking pin can be moved. In the fully extended position, this locking pin can be inserted into a corresponding opening in a component fixed to the curbstone, paving stone, or kerbstone unit. This locking actuator can be electrically controlled and engages, in particular, in an opening formed in the protective cover. This prevents damage caused by unintentional closing during the loading process, as the forces involved are absorbed accordingly. Such an actuator is advantageously arranged at the end of the pivoting part opposite the axis of rotation.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, a magnet is attached to the pivoting part, which corresponds to a magnetoresistive sensor or switch that is fixedly arranged in the receiving space relative to the curbstone, paving stone, or kerbstone unit. Such a sensor unit can be used to detect the extended state of the pivoting part. As soon as this position is detected, the locking actuator can be actuated and, if present, a cover of the charging socket can be released for opening, or the charging process can be initiated via the electronic unit.

[0034] Preferably, the pivoting part comprises the socket receiving element, the cover element, two opposing side walls, and the wall surface, which has a circular arc in cross-section. The opening in the protective cover is closed in both end positions by means of seals. The electrical connection of the charging socket, which leads into the interior of the receiving chamber, is thus always protected from the ingress of dirt and liquids by the pivoting part, i.e., the side walls, the cover element, and the socket receiving element. The electronic unit arranged in the receiving chamber is also protected in this way, as no contaminants can enter the interior of the receiving chamber. The space in which the section of the charging socket furthest from the insertion opening is located is bounded by the pivoting part and by the walls defining the receiving chamber, with the pivoting part essentially continuously closing the opening in the protective cover.Essentially, this means that small gaps must remain between the arc-shaped section of the bushing receiving element and the edge on the narrow side of the opening in the protective cover, as well as between the side walls and the edges of the long sides of the opening to allow movement. These gaps can be sealed, for example, with a brush seal or a circumferential elastomer seal, at least to prevent the ingress of dirt during the opening or closing process. However, these gaps are so small that any amount of liquid that might penetrate can be disregarded, as only a low-friction movement is required.It is also advantageous if an extension is formed at an end of the arc-shaped section of the bushing receiving element furthest from the first section, and / or at an end of the side walls extending from this end to the cover element, so that the side walls and / or the arc-shaped section bear against the protective cover in the receiving chamber when open. This ensures that the gaps required for movement between the boundary edges of the opening, the side walls, and the bushing receiving element are completely closed when the pivoting part is in the open position. A seal can be provided in the area of ​​this extension or on the lower wall of the protective cover opposite it when open. A second seal can be provided in the area of ​​the circumference of the cover element where it rests on the protective cover when closed.

[0035] Naturally, this seal can also be attached to the contact surface of the cover element on the protective cover to ensure a tight seal. Additionally, these seals can also be used as a stop to halt the opening movement, thus simplifying the control of the electric motor.

[0036] The side walls preferably extend over a quarter circle, with the two side walls, the hinged socket cover, and the arc-shaped section of the socket receiving element forming a quarter cylinder closed at both bases. Within this quarter cylinder, which is open only on the side facing downwards into the receiving space when open, the electrical connection to the charging socket can be made, and the socket is thus protected accordingly.

[0037] During the opening and closing process, the side walls are advantageously positioned opposite the edges that define the opening perpendicular to the axis of rotation, so that only small gaps are present and the ingress of dirt into the receiving space is prevented.

[0038] In a further advantageous embodiment, an area of ​​the edges defining the opening can be heated by a heating element. This ensures reliable operation of the swivel mechanism even at sub-zero temperatures, where the cover element could otherwise freeze solid at the edges. Such a heating element can be a heat pad or an electric heating wire, or it can be created by pre-energizing the electric motor, provided the motor is energized in such a way that the stator windings generate heat without causing rotation. Particularly preferred is the integration of a heating wire into an elastomer seal in the edge area, which can serve to seal the swiveling part.

[0039] The curbstone, paving stone, or kerbstone loading device according to the invention offers a high level of user comfort and a long service life compared to known designs, as it reliably prevents the ingress of liquids and dirt into the receiving chamber and thus to the electronics. Incomplete opening or closing due to existing dirt is virtually eliminated, resulting in a very low susceptibility to malfunctions. Ease of use is also significantly simplified, and the loading process can be carried out with one hand without risk of soiling the hands. Above all, damage from improper use is considerably reduced, as the potential slippage of the friction wheel protects both the swiveling element and the actuator from damage.

[0040] A non-limiting embodiment of a curbstone, paving stone or kerbstone charging device according to the invention for charging an energy storage device of an electrically powered vehicle is described below using the example of a curbstone charging device with reference to the figures.

[0041] The Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a road with a curb-loading device according to the invention, viewed from above.

[0042] The Figure 2 shows a side view of a curb-loading device according to the invention with the back wall cut away in the area of ​​the swivel part.

[0043] The Figure 3 shows a side view of a section of the curb-loading device according to the invention. Figure 2 in a partially cropped version.

[0044] The Figure 4shows a side view of a section of a curb-loading device according to the invention with the back wall cut away in the area of ​​the swivel part.

[0045] The Figure 5 shows a section along line BB of the Figure 2 .

[0046] The Figure 6 shows a section along line DD of the Figure 2 .

[0047] The Figure 7 shows a three-dimensional view of the actuator of the curb-loading device according to the invention. Figure 2 with suspension.

[0048] In the Figure 1A pedestrian or vehicular surface 10 in the form of a sidewalk is depicted, bounded on one side by a house wall 12 and on the other side by a curb 14, which is formed by several stone elements 16 and curb charging devices 18 according to the invention and forms a boundary to the street 19. On the side of the sidewalk facing away from the curb 14, there is a power source 20 in the form of a power connection connected to the power grid. The power source 20 is connected to the curb charging devices 18 via underground power supply cables 22. Charging sockets 24 are arranged on the curb charging devices 18, into which a plug 26 is inserted. This plug is connected via a cable 28 to an energy storage device 30, in particular a battery of an electric vehicle 32, so that this energy storage device 30 can be charged via the power source 20.

[0049] The curb-loading device 18 shown in the following figures consists of a curb unit 34, which has a base body 36, made, for example, of concrete or plastic and may have fiber reinforcements or rebar, and in which a receiving space 38, bounded by walls 37, is formed, into which at least the power supply cable 22 projects, and an electronic unit 39 for charging control is arranged. The receiving space 38 can, in particular, be essentially hollow cuboid in shape and has a side open towards the walking or driving surface 10, which is closed by a protective cover 40 serving as a bounding wall 37, the outwardly facing surface 42 of which forms the outer part of the walking or driving surface 10.

[0050] In the present embodiment, the receiving chamber 38 is bounded by walls 37 of a receiving container 44 bonded to the base body 36. On the side of the receiving container facing the protective cover 40, eyes 46 are formed, each with an internal thread, allowing the protective cover 40 to be attached to the receiving container 44, and thus to the base body 36, by means of screws 48. The protective cover 40 forms the upper wall 37 of the receiving chamber 38 and is preferably made of steel. The protective cover 40 closes the upwardly facing, open side of the receiving chamber 38, or the receiving container 44, preferably with the insertion of a seal, which is not shown. Additionally, the protective cover 40 also rests on a top surface of the base body 36 and extends over the ends of the receiving chamber 38 in the longitudinal direction.

[0051] The protective cover 40 has a rounded impact wall 50, which covers an edge between the top of the base body 36 and a side surface of the base body 36 facing the road. The protective cover 40 limits the upper boundary of the receiving space 38 towards the pedestrian or driving surface 10.

[0052] The protective cover 40 has an opening 54, which is concealed by a pivoting element 58, pivotable about a pivot joint 56 in the form of a hinge, towards the receiving space 38. This pivoting element 58 consists of a cover element 60, with which, in the closed state, the pivoting element 58 rests on circumferential edges 62, 64 of the protective cover 40 that define the opening 54, with a seal 65 in between, a wall surface 66 with a circular arc in cross-section, and two opposing side walls 68, one of which is in the Figure 2The lid is shown open and should also be removable and attached via screws. A heating element 67 is arranged in the seal 65 for melting ice. The lid element 60 is mounted eccentrically, so that a pivot axis 86 of the lid element 60 is located outside the circumference 69 of the lid element.

[0053] The wall surface 66, which has a circular arc in cross-section, has a recess 71 in a first section 70 in its central area, which is located closest to the cover element 60. A socket receiving element 72, in the form of a plate, is arranged in this recess. When the cover element 60 is closed, resting on the edges 62, 64 of the protective cover 40 that define the opening 54, the socket receiving element 72 extends perpendicularly from the cover element 60 into the receiving space 38. In the adjacent outer areas that define the recess 71, the wall surface 66, which has a circular arc in cross-section, extends to the cover element 60. The charging socket 24 is attached to this socket receiving element 72, and its section, which has an insertion opening 73 for inserting the plug 26, projects through the plate. The charging socket 24 is attached to the socket receiving element 72 by means of screws 76 via a flange section 74 from the side opposite the insertion opening 73.Alternatively, fastening by gluing or riveting would also be conceivable. An electrical connection 80 is formed on a section 78 of the charging socket 24 located away from the insertion opening 73, from which lines 81 lead to the electronic unit 39. The section 78 on which the electrical connection 80 is formed is accordingly always located in a space 82 bounded by the side walls 68, the socket receiving element 72, the arcuate cross-section of the wall surface 66, and the cover element 60. This space is bounded downwards, in the direction of the receiving space 38, by the walls 37 of the receiving space 38 and is thus essentially closed. Furthermore, a water drain 84 is formed on the charging socket 24.

[0054] A central axis of the arc-shaped wall surface 66 forms the axis of rotation 86 of the pivot joint 56. The arc-shaped wall surface 66 is also extended in an arc with the same center point by a socket cover 87, essentially up to the cover element 60, which is hingedly attached to the first section 70 and, when closed, covers the insertion opening 73 of the charging socket 24. The outer radius of the resulting quarter circle corresponds approximately to the distance of the edge 62, which limits the opening 54 on the side furthest from the pivot joint 56, from the axis of rotation 86 of the pivot joint 56, or is slightly smaller.

[0055] The two side walls 68 also have a corresponding quarter-circle shape and extend accordingly in a quarter circle from the cover element 60 to the opposite end of the arc-shaped wall surface 66 in cross-section, wherein one side wall 68 is arranged on one longitudinal side and the other side wall 68 on the opposite longitudinal side of the bushing receiving element 72, where longitudinal sides are understood to be the sides extending perpendicular to the axis of rotation 86.The distance between the side walls 68 essentially corresponds to the distance between the two edges 64 that define the longitudinal sides of the opening 54, or is slightly smaller, so that minimal friction is possible and only small gaps exist between the edges 62, 64 and the side walls 68 or between the bushing receiving element 72 and the [unclear text], which can optionally be sealed by a flexible seal, such as a brush seal or an elastomer seal. The cover element 60, together with the side walls and the bushing receiving element, forms a quarter cylinder 75, which is open only to the receiving chamber 38.

[0056] Adjacent to the end of the cover element 60 opposite the pivot joint, an electric actuator 88 is arranged in the receiving space 38. This actuator has an electric motor 90, which drives a first gearbox 92 in the form of a planetary gear, thereby generating a high reduction ratio. An output shaft 94 is connected via a flexible coupling 96 to a drive shaft 98 of a second gearbox 100 in the form of a bevel gear. Two friction wheels 104 are mounted on the output shaft 102 of this second gearbox, one on each end of the output shaft 102, which runs parallel to the pivot joint 56.

[0057] As in the Figure 7As can be seen, the actuator 88 is connected to the second gearbox 100 via a support 106, which is screwed to a head end of a housing 107 of the first gearbox 92 and to a housing 108 of the second gearbox 100 on the other side. The support 106 has two tabs 110 extending from the head end along the housing 107 and thus on both sides of a central axis 109 of the actuator 88, which are rotatably connected to two bearing plates 114 of a suspension part 116 via pins 112. The suspension part 116 extends from a suspension pivot axis 118, formed by the pins 112, to over the second gearbox 100 and has a 90° bend above the second gearbox 100, via which the suspension part 116 and thus the actuator 88 with the friction wheels 104 is attached to the protective cover 40 by means of screws 120.Thus, the actuator 88 with the second gearbox 100 and the friction wheels 104 is pivotably mounted in the receiving space 38 about the suspension pivot axis 118.

[0058] The two friction wheels 104 are pressed against the arcuate cross-section of the wall surface 66 of the pivoting part 58 at their ends 58, which face the side walls 68, by means of two springs 122. For this purpose, the springs 122 each bear against a contact surface 124, which is formed on the suspension part 116 and is thus fixedly arranged in the receiving space 38, while the opposite second ends of the springs 122 bear against correspondingly shaped tabs 126 of the carrier 106, which are arranged between the two gears 92, 100 and thus between the friction wheels 104 and the actuator 88.

[0059] To initiate a charging process, the electric motor 90 is energized, causing the friction wheels 104 to rotate. The frictional engagement of the friction wheels 104 with the arcuate wall surface 66, generated by the springs 122, rotates the pivoting element 58 about the axis of rotation 86, lifting the cover element 60 from the opening 54. The side walls 68 slide along the edge 64, and the bushing receiving element 66, or the bushing cover 88, slides along the edge 62 of the opening 54. During this movement, the friction wheels are continuously pressed against the arcuate wall surface 66 and roll along it. After passing through an angle of 90°, the quarter-cylinder 75, at its end 128 opposite the cover element 60 and open to the receiving space, reaches the edges surrounding the opening 54.At this straight end 128 of the pivoting part 58, a radially outward extension 130 is formed, which, in the fully extended state, brings the pivoting part 68 into contact with the edges 62, 64. In this area, a circumferential seal 132 is attached to the underside of the edges 62, 64, so that further extension of the pivoting part 58 is not possible in this position and the opening 54 is again completely sealed.

[0060] In every state, there is therefore at most a small gap between the pivoting part 58 and the edges 62, 64 that define the opening 54, while in the end positions the opening 54 is completely closed. This largely prevents the ingress of water and, above all, dirt into the receiving chamber 38. After opening the socket cover 88, the plug 26 can be inserted into the charging socket and the energy storage device 30 of the vehicle 32 can be charged.To prevent the pivoting part 58 from rotating back into the receiving space 38, a locking actuator 134 is arranged at the end of the pivoting part 58 furthest from the pivot joint, just before the straight end 128. This actuator has an electrically extendable and retractable locking pin 136, which, in this position, engages a corresponding opening 138 on a component 139 fixed to the curb unit, which in this case is formed by the protective cover 40. This prevents unwanted retraction. To detect the moment of this actuation, an extension section 140 is formed on the pivoting part 58, extending beyond the quarter cylinder 75. A magnet 142 is attached to this extension section. This magnet 142 interacts with a magnetoresistive sensor 144 or switch, such as a Hall effect switch, which is fixed to the curb unit 34 and therefore not movable.In the present embodiment, the sensor 144 is attached to the suspension part 116 in such a way that the magnet, when fully extended, triggers the sensor 114, i.e., it is opposite the sensor 114 in this position. After the charging process is complete, the locking pin 136 is retracted via the locking actuator 134, and the electric motor 90 is rotated in the opposite direction until the cover element 60 closes the opening 54 again.

[0061] Activation can be initiated via a suitable authentication system using a mobile phone or a chip card. Once extended, the charging port is easily accessible to the user. Manual intervention for opening and closing is unnecessary, thus preventing injuries from pinching or similar hazards, as well as contamination from dirty charging ports or covers that the user would otherwise have to touch. The charging device is nevertheless very robust, as malfunctions caused by the ingress of dirt or liquids are prevented, as is damage from the swivel mechanism becoming jammed during extension, since the friction wheel could slip in such a state.

[0062] It should be noted that the swivel joint can also be attached using appropriate brackets inside the receiving chamber, but it must be precisely aligned with the protective cover or additionally secured to it. Various modifications are also possible, of course. For example, only a central friction wheel can be used, which can also roll on the bushing cover.

Claims

1. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32), comprising a curb, paving stone or curbstone unit (34), in which an inner receiving space (38) is formed, which is delimited by walls (37), wherein an opening (54) is formed in one of the walls (37), a charging socket (24), a pivot part (58), to which the charging socket (24) is fastened, and which has a cover element (60), via which the opening (54) in the wall (37) can be closed, wherein the pivot part (58) is connected via a pivot joint (56) to the wall (37), in which the opening (54) is formed, so that the charging socket (24) can be extended out of the receiving space (38) by moving the pivot part (58) out of the position of the cover element (60) closing the opening (54), wherein an electrically controllable actuator (88) is arranged in the receiving space (38), via which at least one friction wheel (104) can be driven, which friction wheel acts on the pivot part (58) in a force-locking manner for rotating the pivot part (58), so that the pivot part (58) can be rotated with the charging socket (24).

2. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the electrically controllable actuator (88) has an electric motor (90) with a gear mechanism (92).

3. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the curb, paving stone or curbstone unit (34) has a main body (36), in which the inner receiving space (38) is formed, and has a protective cover (40) as a wall (37), which substantially closes the receiving space (38) in the direction of a surface (42) serving as a walking or driving surface (10) and on which the opening (54) is formed.

4. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuator (88) is connected via an elastic coupling (96) to a second gear mechanism (100), on the output shaft (102) of which the friction wheel (104) is arranged at least in a rotationally fixed manner.

5. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to Claim 4, characterized in that the friction wheel (104) can be rotated with the actuator (88) about a suspension axis of rotation (118), which runs parallel to the output shaft (102) on which the friction wheel (104) is arranged.

6. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pivot joint (56) is formed as a hinge, the axis of rotation (86) of which is arranged outside the cover element circumference (69) and which is connected to the cover element (60).

7. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pivot part (58) has a wall surface (66) which is arcuate in cross section and the distance of which from the pivot joint (56) is constant, wherein this distance of the arcuate wall surface (66) from the pivot joint (56) is selected in such a way that the arcuate wall surface (66) is moved during the opening and closing operation opposite an edge (62) which is remote from the pivot joint (56) and delimits the opening (54) in the wall (37).

8. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to Claim 7, characterized in that the friction wheel (104) is loaded against the wall surface (66) of the pivot part (58) which is arcuate in cross section.

9. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to Claim 8, characterized in that the friction wheel (104) is loaded by a spring (122) against the arcuate wall surface (66), and the spring (122) is arranged between the suspension axis of rotation (118) of the actuator (88) and the friction wheel (104) and bears with its first end against a bearing surface (124) arranged fixedly with respect to the curb, paving stone or curbstone unit (34) and bears with its second end against a carrier (106) of the actuator (88).

10. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to Claim 9, characterized in that the bearing surface (124) is formed on a suspension part (116), which is fastened to the protective cover (40) and which has two bearing plates (114), via which the suspension axis of rotation (118) is mounted on both sides.

11. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to one of Claims 7 to 10, characterized in that two friction wheels (104) are arranged on the output shaft (102), which friction wheels are loaded in a force-locking manner against the arcuate wall surface (66) of the pivot part (58), and two springs (122) are arranged between the suspension axis of rotation (118) of the actuator (88) and the friction wheels (104), which springs each bear with their first end against a bearing surface (124) arranged fixedly with respect to the curb, paving stone or curbstone unit (34) and bear with their second end against a carrier (106) of the actuator (88), wherein the friction wheels (104) and the springs (122) are arranged symmetrically with respect to a central axis (109) of the actuator (88).

12. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to one of Claims 7 to 11, characterized in that the charging socket (24) is fastened to a socket receiving element (72) of the pivot part (58), which socket receiving element is arranged in a recess (71) of the arcuate wall surface (66), which recess is formed in a first section (70) of the arcuate wall surface (66), which is arranged closest to the cover element (60) in the closed state, wherein the socket receiving element (72) extends perpendicularly to the cover element (60) of the pivot part (58).

13. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a locking actuator (134) is arranged on the pivot part (58), via which locking actuator a locking pin (136) can be moved, which locking pin, in the fully extended position, can be retracted into a corresponding opening (138) of a component (139) arranged fixedly with respect to the curb, paving stone or curbstone unit (34).

14. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a magnet (142) is fastened to the pivot part (58), which magnet corresponds to a magnetoresistive sensor (144) or switch, which is arranged fixedly in the receiving space (38) relative to the curb, paving stone or curbstone unit (34).

15. Curb, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to Claim 12, characterized in that the pivot part (58) has the socket receiving element (72), the cover element (60), two mutually opposite side walls (68) and the wall surface (66) which is arcuate in cross section, wherein the opening (54) in the protective cover (40) is closed in both end positions with the interposition of seals (65, 132).